A city worker suffered non-life-threatening injuries while on a job site after being struck by a motorist illegally entering a closed work area.
The incident occurred on Oct. 3 around 2:25 p.m. at a work zone on the 1100 block of 13th Avenue Northwest. A news release from the city says the employee was not severely injured — only some bruises — while the Moose Jaw Police Service is investigating the situation.
“We’re upset and extremely discouraged by this incident,” said city manager Jim Puffalt. “This work zone had clearly marked signage and was properly barricaded, yet those signs were ignored, endangering the lives of our crew.
“Our thoughts go towards our employee and their family. Thankfully the injuries weren’t more severe.”
Puffalt implored drivers to obey marked signage and exercise caution in work zones for the safety of everyone.
“Unfortunately, we’ve had multiple incidents like this in recent history, and there are consequences,” Puffalt continued. “Not only can serious injuries occur, but anyone who fails to observe posted signage can face penalties under sections 9 and 10 of the City’s Traffic Bylaw.
“Our crews work hard to improve Moose Jaw’s infrastructure,” he added, “and they can’t perform properly or efficiently if they are constantly worried about their safety.”